Luxor Opens First American Space in Upper Egypt, Backed by $200,000 U.S. Investment

The United States marked a new milestone in its cultural and educational engagement with Egypt as U.S. Ambassador to Cairo Herro Mustafa Garg and Luxor Governor Abdel-Motaleb Emara on Friday inaugurated the first American Space in Upper Egypt.

The newly launched American Corner Luxor, located inside the Misr Public Library, is the product of a three-way partnership between the U.S. Embassy, the Luxor Governorate, and the library system. The initiative is supported by more than $200,000 in U.S. government funding, aimed at expanding access to learning, innovation, and cultural exchange for communities in Luxor and neighboring governorates.

The opening forms part of the America250 celebrations commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, and underscores more than a century of diplomatic relations between Washington and Cairo.

“We are proud to partner with the Luxor Governorate and Misr Public Library to create this dynamic hub offering English-language activities, workforce development workshops, youth programs, and cultural events to the people of Upper Egypt,” Ambassador Mustafa Garg said during the ceremony. “This partnership … is a perfect example of how the United States benefits and positively impacts the lives of Egyptian people every day.”

Designed as a multi-purpose community space, the American Corner Luxor features upgraded technology, digital tools, and a wide collection of American books and multimedia. Its flexible layout supports collaborative learning, study spaces, and public programs, blending contemporary American themes with local cultural elements.

The facility becomes Egypt’s fourth American Space, joining the American Center Cairo and American Corners in Alexandria and Maadi. It is now part of a global network of nearly 600 such centers promoting English learning, innovation, and cross-cultural engagement.

The launch event also showcased an archival photography exhibition by Chicago House, highlighting a century of U.S.-supported archaeological work in Egypt. To continue the America250 celebration, the U.S. Embassy is hosting a “Pop-Up USA” fair and music concert in front of Luxor Temple.